Experience a relaxed, low-sensory evening at the Australian Museum designed especially for autistic adults and those with sensory sensitivities.
Friday 8 May 2026
6:00pm - 9:00pm
1 William St, Darlinghurst NSW 2010, Australia
Free, registration required
Enjoy a unique after-hours visit to the Australian Museum in a calm, sensory-friendly environment tailored for adults aged 16 and over. This event offers adjusted lighting and sound to create a comfortable atmosphere, with quiet spaces available to rest and recharge. Dress up in your favourite costume or outfit to add a fun twist to your night.
The evening features a variety of engaging activities including silent discos with DJs and dance lessons, talks by experts, guided tours, hands-on STEM stations, and creative workshops. A pop-up bar will be available serving drinks and light snacks for those over 18.
This event is designed to support autistic visitors and anyone who benefits from a more relaxed museum experience, ensuring everyone can enjoy the museum’s natural and cultural wonders without overwhelming sensory input.
Night Owls runs from 18:00 to 21:00 on Friday, 8 May 2026. Entry is free but registration is required, with additional charges applying for major exhibitions. The museum closes to the general public at 17:00 and reopens exclusively for Night Owls attendees.
The program includes a Visual Story to help visitors prepare for the event and understand what to expect. Staff are trained in autism awareness and accessibility to provide a supportive environment throughout the evening.
This is the second Night Owls event hosted by the Australian Museum, with hopes for more in the future. It is recommended for people aged 16 and older who prefer a quieter, less crowded museum experience.
The event takes place throughout the Australian Museum located at 1 William Street, Sydney NSW 2010. The venue is fully wheelchair accessible, with detailed accessibility information available on the museum’s website.
There is no onsite parking, but nearby car parks and metered street parking are available. Enacon Parking on Cathedral Street offers accessible spots just a short, step-free walk from the museum.
Public transport options are convenient, and the museum encourages visitors to plan their journey ahead to ensure a smooth arrival and departure.
This event is specifically designed to accommodate sensory sensitivities, with measures such as reduced capacity, adjusted lighting, and silenced loud noises like dinosaur roars. Hand dryers will be turned off in restrooms and replaced with paper towels.
Visitors are encouraged to dress up if they wish, with the guideline that costumes must not expose private body parts and face coverings must be removable for security checks.
A designated quiet space will be available for anyone needing a break, ensuring a comfortable and inclusive experience for all attendees.
Admission to Night Owls is free, but registration is essential to secure your place. Additional charges may apply for access to major exhibitions within the museum.
Tickets can be booked through the Australian Museum’s official website. Early booking is recommended due to limited capacity designed to maintain a low-sensory environment.
Stay informed about future Night Owls events by subscribing to the museum’s eNewsletter for updates and announcements.
